CPT® Code 31580

Laryngoplasty, specifically coded as CPT® 31580, is a surgical procedure performed to address a laryngeal web, which is an abnormal sheet of tissue that connects the vocal cords. This condition can be congenital, meaning it is present at birth, or it may develop as a result of an acquired condition, such as following a tracheostomy. While small laryngeal webs may not cause any symptoms, larger webs can lead to significant voice changes and respiratory difficulties. The procedure involves the insertion of an indwelling keel or stent, which is crucial for maintaining the separation of the vocal cords during the healing process. If the patient has not previously undergone a tracheostomy, this procedure is performed prior to the laryngoplasty to ensure proper access to the larynx. The surgical approach includes making a horizontal incision above the tracheostoma, creating a subplatysmal flap, and exposing the necessary anatomical structures to effectively divide the laryngeal web. The placement of the keel is essential for promoting epithelialization of the vocal cord edges and preventing the reformation of the web, thereby facilitating recovery and restoring normal vocal function.